Composer John Williams announced he will be leaving the “Star Wars” franchise after next year’s “Episode IX.”
“We know (director) J.J. Abrams is preparing one now that I will hopefully do next year for him,” Williams told KUSC radio. “I look forward to it. It will round out a series of nine that will be quite enough for me.”

“Episode IX” is expected to be the final installment in the current storyline as well as the last chapter in the long-running saga of the Skywalker family.

“Doing the first film in 1977, none of us had any idea that there would be a second film,” Williams said. “It’s developed in the most amazing way.”

Disney plans to make more “Star Wars” films featuring new storylines and characters, but it looks like it will have to do so without Williams, who has scored eight “Episode” movies.

Star Wars: Episode IX is set for release on Dec. 20, 2019. The film has not been named yet.

]]>http://insidepulse.com/2018/03/11/star-wars-episode-ix-will-be-skywalker-family-storyline-finale-composer-john-williams-last-trek-with-star-wars/feed/0Star Wars: The Last Jedi With Deleted Scenes Hits Home Video On March 27http://insidepulse.com/2018/03/07/star-wars-the-last-jedi-with-deleted-scenes-hits-home-video-on-march-27/
http://insidepulse.com/2018/03/07/star-wars-the-last-jedi-with-deleted-scenes-hits-home-video-on-march-27/#respondWed, 07 Mar 2018 13:57:27 +0000http://insidepulse.com/?p=5108892After being teased with Luke Skywalker at the end of Star Wars: The Force Awakens, viewers finally got a chance to catch up with him on Star Wars: The Last Jedi. Now you can bring the experience home with Star Wars: The Last Jedi on home video. First you can watch it digitally in both HD and 4K on March 13. Two weeks later you’ll be able to pick up the physical disc with 4K UHD and Blu-ray. You have a chance to enjoy the continuing saga in the same detail as all those times you saw it on the big screen. But now you’ll get to see the deleted scenes. You’ll be able to truly enjoy Mark Hamill’s beard. Here’s the details of the releases from Lucasfilm and Disney:

BURBANK, Calif. (February 20, 2018) — Lucasfilm’s Star Wars: The Last Jedi—the next action-packed chapter of the Star Wars saga— Earned critical acclaim and the No. 1 spot atop 2017’s list of highest-grossing films. The visually stunning film welcomes the return of original characters, including Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, Chewbacca, Yoda, R2-D2 and C-3PO and further explores the deepening journey of the saga’s new members, Rey, Finn, Poe, and Kylo Ren. Now families can bring home the movie digitally in HD and 4K Ultra HD and via Movies Anywhere on March 13, two weeks before the 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray, and Blu-ray disc on March 27. This release also marks Disney’s first title available on 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray disc in both Dolby Vision HDR and Dolby Atmos® immersive audio, delivering consumers a transformative viewing experience.

Director Rian Johnson takes fans on an intimate journey into the creation of Star Wars: The Last Jedi in a feature-length documentary, explaining his unique interpretation of the Force, detailing the painstaking process of creating Snoke, and deconstructing action-packed scenes from the film such as the epic space battle and the final confrontation. Johnson also reveals two exclusive scenes, featuring Andy Serkis as Snoke prior to his digital makeover, as well as 14 never-before-seen deleted scenes, in addition to his audio commentary.

Bonus features include*:
The Director and the Jedi – Go deep behind the scenes with writer-director Rian Johnson on an intimate and personal journey through the production of the movie—and experience what it’s like to helm a global franchise and cultural phenomenon.
Balance of the Force – Explore the mythology of the Force and why Rian Johnson chose to interpret its role in such a unique way.
Scene Breakdowns
Lighting the Spark: Creating the Space Battle – Get a close-up look at the epic space battle, from the sounds that help propel the action, through the practical and visual effects, to the characters who bring it all to life.
Snoke and Mirrors – Motion capture and Star Wars collide as the filmmakers take us through the detailed process of creating the movie’s malevolent master villain.
Showdown on Crait – Break down everything that went into creating the stunning world seen in the movie’s final confrontation, including the interplay between real-word locations and visual effects, reimagining the walkers, designing the crystal foxes, and much more.
Andy Serkis Live! (One Night Only) – Writer-director Rian Johnson presents two exclusive sequences from the movie featuring Andy Serkis’ riveting, raw on-set performance before his digital makeover into Snoke.
Deleted Scenes – With an introduction and optional commentary by writer-director Rian Johnson.
Audio Commentary – View the movie with in-depth feature audio commentary by writer-director Rian Johnson.

* Digital bonus offerings may vary by retailer.

Star Wars: The Last Jedi is packaged several ways to ensure fans get the most out of their in-home viewing experience. The Multiscreen Edition (formerly the Blu-ray Combo Pack) includes Blu-ray, and a Digital copy, giving viewers the flexibility to watch the film on different devices. Those with 4K Ultra HD capability may opt for a 4K UHD Collector’s Edition, including 4K Ultra HD disc with Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, Blu-ray disc, and a digital copy (where available). Dolby Vision delivers greater brightness and contrast, as well as a fuller palette of rich colors. Dolby Atmos places and moves audio anywhere in the room, including overhead. Together on 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray disc, viewers will practically feel the Force in their own home.

ABOUT STAR WARS: THE LAST JEDI:
In Lucasfilm’s Star Wars: The Last Jedi, the Skywalker saga continues as the heroes of The Force Awakens join the galactic legends in an epic adventure that unlocks age-old mysteries of the Force and shocking revelations of the past.

ABOUT LUCASFILM LTD.
Lucasfilm Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company, is a global leader in film, television and digital entertainment production. In addition to its motion-picture and television production, the company’s activities include visual effects and audio post-production, cutting-edge digital animation, interactive entertainment software, and the management of the global merchandising activities for its entertainment properties including the legendary STAR WARS and INDIANA JONES franchises. Lucasfilm Ltd. is headquartered in northern California.

MOVIES ANYWHERE (MA):
Movies Anywhere simplifies and enhances the digital movie collection and viewing experience by allowing consumers to access their favorite digital movies in one place when purchased or redeemed through participating digital retailers. Movies Anywhere brings together the movies from Sony Pictures, Twentieth Century Fox Film, The Walt Disney Studios (including Disney, Pixar, Marvel Studios and Lucasfilm), Universal Pictures and Warner Bros. Participating digital retailers at launch are Amazon Video, Google Play, iTunes and Vudu. Movies Anywhere offers a library of over 7,300 digital movies at launch, including new releases, and will continue to expand the consumer experience as more content providers, digital retailers and platforms are added. Using the free Movies Anywhere app and website, consumers can connect their Movies Anywhere account with participating digital retailers and enjoy their favorite digital movies from the comfort of their living room and across multiple devices and platforms, including Amazon Fire devices; Android devices and Android TV; Apple TV; Chromecast; iPhone, iPad and iPod touch; Roku® devices and popular browsers. Consumers can also redeem digital copy codes found in eligible Blu-ray and DVD disc packages from participating studios and enjoy them through Movies Anywhere.

]]>http://insidepulse.com/2018/03/07/star-wars-the-last-jedi-with-deleted-scenes-hits-home-video-on-march-27/feed/0Top 5 Star Wars Book Releases Of 2018http://insidepulse.com/2018/02/26/top-5-star-wars-book-releases-of-2018/
http://insidepulse.com/2018/02/26/top-5-star-wars-book-releases-of-2018/#respondMon, 26 Feb 2018 13:00:14 +0000http://insidepulse.com/?p=5106812Star Wars Books and Comics has a great list of the Star Wars related lit that is coming out in 2018. Their full list is here. I have my Top 5 from that list below.
April 24, 2018

Phasma
Delilah S. Dawson
Trade Paperback Novel [Del Rey]

For all her renown, Captain Phasma remains as virtually unknown as the impassive expression on her gleaming chrome helmet. Now, an adversary is bent on unearthing her mysterious origins—and exposing a secret she guards as zealously and ruthlessly as she serves her masters…

May 25, 2018

Most Wanted
Rae Carson
Hardback YA Novel [Disney-Lucasfilm Press]

Han Solo and Qi’ra don’t have a lot in common other than not having a lot. They’re street kids on the industrial planet Corellia, doing whatever it takes to get by, dreaming of something more. They each jump at a chance to prove themselves in the perilous world of Corellia’s criminal underbelly, only to discover they are on the same mission for the same unscrupulous boss.

Grand Admiral Thrawn and Darth Vader ally against a threat to the Empire in this new novel from bestselling author Timothy Zahn.
The sequel to New York Times bestseller Thrawn, Thrawn: Alliances will continue to follow the rise of Grand Admiral Thrawn to the heights of Imperial power—and accompany him into the past, witnessing his first encounter with the man who will one day become Darth Vader.

August 9, 2018

Rebel Rising
Beth Revis
Paperback YA Novel [Disney-Lucasfilm Press]

Jyn Erso has dedicated herself to the cause. But fighting alongside Saw Gerrera and his people brings with it danger and the question of just how far Jyn is willing to go as one of Saw’s soldiers. When she faces an unthinkable betrayal that shatters her world, Jyn will have to pull the pieces of herself back together and figure out what she truly believes in…

]]>http://insidepulse.com/2018/02/26/top-5-star-wars-book-releases-of-2018/feed/0Star Wars: The Last Jedi Appears March 27 On 4K UHD & Morehttp://insidepulse.com/2018/02/20/star-wars-the-last-jedi-appears-march-27-on-4k-uhd-and-more/
http://insidepulse.com/2018/02/20/star-wars-the-last-jedi-appears-march-27-on-4k-uhd-and-more/#respondTue, 20 Feb 2018 14:48:37 +0000http://insidepulse.com/?p=5106553I’m not going to spoil the movie in case for some reason you couldn’t make it to the theater to see Star Wars: The Last Jedi. But I will reveal that the movie comes out on digital formats on March 13 and on physical formats including 4K UHD on March 27. Do you know that that means? You can sit at home and watch the film in the same digitally projected resolution as what we saw on the movie screen. That’s startling when you think about it. The original Star Wars took years to arrive for the VCR and even then it was a VHS pan and scan tape in mono. You got an idea of what Star Wars was like as a movie, but realistically you only experienced the Wikipedia entry. Fox didn’t sell 35mm prints of the original movie.Now you get the same experience and experience it over and over in your house without the fear of a film fascist usher banning you for life for using your phone to check who did a CGI character’s voice. Here’s the details from Lucasfilm:

BURBANK, Calif. (February 20, 2018) — Lucasfilm’s Star Wars: The Last Jedi—the next action-packed chapter of the Star Wars saga— Earned critical acclaim and the No. 1 spot atop 2017’s list of highest-grossing films. The visually stunning film welcomes the return of original characters, including Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, Chewbacca, Yoda, R2-D2 and C-3PO and further explores the deepening journey of the saga’s new members, Rey, Finn, Poe, and Kylo Ren. Now families can bring home the movie digitally in HD and 4K Ultra HD and via Movies Anywhere on March 13, two weeks before the 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray, and Blu-ray disc on March 27. This release also marks Disney’s first title available on 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray disc in both Dolby Vision HDR and Dolby Atmos® immersive audio, delivering consumers a transformative viewing experience.

Director Rian Johnson takes fans on an intimate journey into the creation of Star Wars: The Last Jedi in a feature-length documentary, explaining his unique interpretation of the Force, detailing the painstaking process of creating Snoke, and deconstructing action-packed scenes from the film such as the epic space battle and the final confrontation. Johnson also reveals two exclusive scenes, featuring Andy Serkis as Snoke prior to his digital makeover, as well as 14 never-before-seen deleted scenes, in addition to his audio commentary.

Bonus features include*:
The Director and the Jedi – Go deep behind the scenes with writer-director Rian Johnson on an intimate and personal journey through the production of the movie—and experience what it’s like to helm a global franchise and cultural phenomenon.
Balance of the Force – Explore the mythology of the Force and why Rian Johnson chose to interpret its role in such a unique way.
Scene Breakdowns
Lighting the Spark: Creating the Space Battle – Get a close-up look at the epic space battle, from the sounds that help propel the action, through the practical and visual effects, to the characters who bring it all to life.
Snoke and Mirrors – Motion capture and Star Wars collide as the filmmakers take us through the detailed process of creating the movie’s malevolent master villain.
Showdown on Crait – Break down everything that went into creating the stunning world seen in the movie’s final confrontation, including the interplay between real-word locations and visual effects, reimagining the walkers, designing the crystal foxes, and much more.
Andy Serkis Live! (One Night Only) – Writer-director Rian Johnson presents two exclusive sequences from the movie featuring Andy Serkis’ riveting, raw on-set performance before his digital makeover into Snoke.
Deleted Scenes – With an introduction and optional commentary by writer-director Rian Johnson.
Audio Commentary – View the movie with in-depth feature audio commentary by writer-director Rian Johnson.

* Digital bonus offerings may vary by retailer.

Star Wars: The Last Jedi is packaged several ways to ensure fans get the most out of their in-home viewing experience. The Multiscreen Edition (formerly the Blu-ray Combo Pack) includes Blu-ray, and a Digital copy, giving viewers the flexibility to watch the film on different devices. Those with 4K Ultra HD capability may opt for a 4K UHD Collector’s Edition, including 4K Ultra HD disc with Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, Blu-ray disc, and a digital copy (where available). Dolby Vision delivers greater brightness and contrast, as well as a fuller palette of rich colors. Dolby Atmos places and moves audio anywhere in the room, including overhead. Together on 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray disc, viewers will practically feel the Force in their own home.

ABOUT STAR WARS: THE LAST JEDI:
In Lucasfilm’s Star Wars: The Last Jedi, the Skywalker saga continues as the heroes of The Force Awakens join the galactic legends in an epic adventure that unlocks age-old mysteries of the Force and shocking revelations of the past.

ABOUT LUCASFILM LTD.
Lucasfilm Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company, is a global leader in film, television and digital entertainment production. In addition to its motion-picture and television production, the company’s activities include visual effects and audio post-production, cutting-edge digital animation, interactive entertainment software, and the management of the global merchandising activities for its entertainment properties including the legendary STAR WARS and INDIANA JONES franchises. Lucasfilm Ltd. is headquartered in northern California.

MOVIES ANYWHERE (MA):
Movies Anywhere simplifies and enhances the digital movie collection and viewing experience by allowing consumers to access their favorite digital movies in one place when purchased or redeemed through participating digital retailers. Movies Anywhere brings together the movies from Sony Pictures, Twentieth Century Fox Film, The Walt Disney Studios (including Disney, Pixar, Marvel Studios and Lucasfilm), Universal Pictures and Warner Bros. Participating digital retailers at launch are Amazon Video, Google Play, iTunes and Vudu. Movies Anywhere offers a library of over 7,300 digital movies at launch, including new releases, and will continue to expand the consumer experience as more content providers, digital retailers and platforms are added. Using the free Movies Anywhere app and website, consumers can connect their Movies Anywhere account with participating digital retailers and enjoy their favorite digital movies from the comfort of their living room and across multiple devices and platforms, including Amazon Fire devices; Android devices and Android TV; Apple TV; Chromecast; iPhone, iPad and iPod touch; Roku® devices and popular browsers. Consumers can also redeem digital copy codes found in eligible Blu-ray and DVD disc packages from participating studios and enjoy them through Movies Anywhere.

ABOUT THE WALT DISNEY STUDIOS:
For over 90 years, The Walt Disney Studios has been the foundation on which The Walt Disney Company was built. Today, the Studio brings quality movies, music and stage plays to consumers throughout the world. Feature films are released under the following banners: Disney, including Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios; Disneynature; Marvel Studios; Lucasfilm; and Touchstone Pictures. The Disney Music Group encompasses the Walt Disney Records and Hollywood Records labels, as well as Disney Music Publishing. The Disney Theatrical Group produces and licenses live events, including Disney on Broadway, Disney On Ice and Disney Live!.

ABOUT DOLBY ATMOS
Dolby Atmos delivers moving audio—sound that can be precisely placed and moved anywhere in three-dimensional space, including overhead. It brings entertainment alive all around the audience in a powerfully immersive and emotive experience.

Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for your patience. Before we can move on with our new shows in 2018, we have one last episode from 2017 to close out the previous year.

The latest entry into the StarWars saga hit theaters in mid December 2017 and left fans divided. Some fans loved The Last Jedi and all that it had to offer. A new direction for the Star Wars films, the return of LukeSkywalker, and an unpredictable story line.

Other fans were left unsatisfied. Fan favorites were killed off, questions from the previous movie were left unanswered, and we got a very passive Luke Skywalker. Some fans have even taken to signing petitions to have The Last Jedi stricken from the movie canon.

Regardless of how the film was perceived, the Star Wars movie train continues to chug along. Almost a month after it release it has pulled in over $1.2 billion worldwide.

As we talk about the film, we point out things that we liked, things that caught us off guard, and what we hope we will see in future installments.

]]>http://insidepulse.com/2018/01/12/rabblecast-516-star-wars-episode-viii-the-last-jedi-review/feed/0Review – Star Wars: The Last Jedihttp://insidepulse.com/2017/12/16/review-star-wars-the-last-jedi-2/
http://insidepulse.com/2017/12/16/review-star-wars-the-last-jedi-2/#respondSat, 16 Dec 2017 21:04:15 +0000http://insidepulse.com/?p=5100506There’s just something about the opening moments of a Star Wars movie. The quiet “a long time ago…,”, the iconic John Williams music, and the moment that the title crawl begins. Now that we’re destined to get a new Star Wars movie every year from now until forever, that impact may at some point wear off, but not yet. The feeling of seeing Episode VIII go across the screen is one that really is still one that’s as every bit as powerful as finally seeing Episode VII appear in the title crawl two years ago.

The Force Awakens ended on a cliffhanger, so for the first time we get a Star Wars movie that picks up pretty much right where the last one left off. The Starkiller base has been destroyed but so has the republic as well as any military presence that the republic may have. The First Order is now the de facto biggest power in the galaxy, and General Leia’s Resistance is even more Rebel Alliance 2.0 than before if that’s possible. General Hux ( Domhnall Gleeson) opens up the movie trying to stop an evacuation of the Resistance. In the opening sequence Poe Dameron (Oscar Isaac) tries to attack and destroy the far outpowered First Order Dreadnaught ship, and while his squadron is ultimately successful in taking out the bigger ship, the victory comes a cost that possibly puts the remains of the Resistance in even greater danger than they were before.

Meanwhile we pick up with Rey’s (Daisy Ridley) story right where we left it off, with her holding out Luke’s lightsaber on the edge of a cliff to the long sought after Jedi master. Luke (Mark Hamill) , however is not the idealistic farm boy from A New Hope, or even the war hero savior of the Jedi that he was at the end of Return of the Jedi. The failure of Ben Solo falling to the dark side and destroying Luke’s attempt to return the Jedi to the galaxy have turned the former Jedi into a recluse who has intentionally shut himself off from the galaxy and even from the Force itself. Rey is trying desperately to bring Luke back to the Resistance who desperately need a glimmer of hope in this dark hour.

Kylo Ren (Adam Driver) is also given a bigger role in this movie, and a lot more screen time as he and Rey find themselves unexpectedly connected by the force and able to communicate with one another, something that neither one of them is particularly fond of. The Last Jedi spends more time delving into Kylo Ren as a character as well. There are a lot more quiet, character building moments for Kylo in contrast to The Force Awakens where he served as what essentially amounted to the new Darth Vader big bad for the bulk of the movie. Kylo Ren’s forced conversations with Rey through the Force serve as interesting character moments for both of them, as we get to see both actors really develop three dimensional characters that start to drive the emotion of the movie.

It’s honesty hard to say if a Star Wars movie is simply a good movie or a bad movie. Star Wars is such an ingrained part of our culture now that when a new movie comes out it’s not enough to say whether or not it’s good. No, you have to discuss how does it compare to the original movies. Is it at least better than the prequels? How well does it fit into the mythos established in the previous movies? Does it respect the “rules” of the Star Wars universe the way it should? Doe it feel properly Star Wars? And with this movie in particular, how does The Last Jedi continue the goodwill that The Force Awakens achieved while addressing the criticism of the previous movie.

It’s safe to say that those who were complaining about how The Force Awakens was just a remake of A New Hope can’t really say the same thing here. There are a few comparisons to be drawn between The Last Jedi and The Empire Strikes Back. Rey does search for a Jedi master in a forgotten corner of the galaxy. And there is an attack on a Rebel base (sorry, Resistance base) that takes place in on a white covered planet, though the movie makes it clear that the planet is covered in salt, not snow this time around. But even with these threads that connect this movie to The Empire Strikes Back, it’s still a very different movie. The Last Jedi has its own story to tell, and it takes several unexpected turns throughout the story. The Last Jedi, surprisingly, may not be the easiest movie to watch. Star Wars movies are often called popcorn flicks, easy to consume, lighthearted, fluff entertainment. The Last Jedi instead tackles a few heaver themes head on. There is a ton to unpack with this movie and unfortunately, a lot of that can’t be done while keeping the review spoiler free, but it’s safe to say that this might feel like the “newest” and “most different” Star Wars movie that we’ve seen in awhile.

That doesn’t mean that The Last Jedi does “feel” Star Wars enough. Make no mistake this is still very much a Star Wars movie. The ship and planet designs feel like they’re either right out of, or a natural evolution of the settings of the original trilogy. The way the film is shot and edited feels like a Star Wars movie including a few wipe transitions between scenes. The John Williams score for The Last Jedi is probably even better than his work on The Force Awakens as it feels like he’s gotten back into the Star Wars grove after the first movie back and now he’s delivered a score that feels like the genuine next step for a Star Wars soundtrack.

It feels like Disney is still trying to figure out exactly what to do with the Star Wars franchise. There have been three different cases so far where a director was announced for a project only to be let go before completing, or in some cases even starting filming. The Force Awakens and The Last Jedi, while both very good movies, serve two very different purposes. And with rumors of a different spin off movie popping up every other month or so, Disney still seems to be playing with where they want this series to be. But this movie is a safe, strong hit out of the park, and, along with its predecessor, provides a powerful base to continue to build the franchise on.

Let the long countdown to the holiday season of 2019 commence. I mean, I guess those of us who weren’t alive or old enough to comprehend time through the years of 1977 to 1983 can take solace in knowing we only have to wait two years for the conclusion of the latest Star Wars trilogy instead of an ungodly three; however, I can safely say that 150 minutes has never felt so short, and 730 days (735 days if you want to get technical) has never felt so far, far away.

Yes, Star Wars: The Last Jedi has arrived, and I am happy to report that it truly couldn’t have been handled any better than it was. I’m not one to go into a movie with expectations, as I find it best to go in with an open mind and allow the journey to speak for itself; though, with Star Wars, you can’t help but hope you’ll be transported on a magical journey through the galaxy with characters we love, or are meeting for the first time – and writer/director Rian Johnson does just that with The Last Jedi.

Being the middle chapter of a trilogy allows Johnson some freedoms in that the main characters and story foundations have been introduced, so we’re able to jump right into the action. Comparisons to The Empire Strikes Back are inevitable (odds are most won’t heavily debate comparisons between Attack of the Clones – and understandably so) much like The Force Awakens was met with many side-by-side comparisons to how it mirrored multiple story points from A New Hope.

While I personally didn’t mind the certain similarities of The Force Awakens and A New Hope, some did, and those same people will be pleased to hear that while The Last Jedi does separate our heroes much like Empire did, there are also quite a few twists and turns along the way that really make The Last Jedi stand apart from any Star Wars film that’s come before it.

Since The Force Awakens, conspiracy theories have run rampant across the Internet, trying to figure out who Rey’s parents are, who Supreme Leader Snoke actually is, and other mysterious things that were only touched upon in the first film. In The Last Jedi, Johnson answers some of those questions in a way that won’t satisfy all, but in a way that I absolutely loved.

I’m not big into conspiracy theories, so I never read them or got into any discussions, but even browsing various sites you couldn’t help but scroll by discussions about how Rey may be Obi-Wan Kenobi’s long lost daughter (not sure how the math ever added up on that one,) or was possibly Luke’s daughter, or even that she was Han and Leia’s daughter, and in turn, Kylo Ren’s sister. These theories always just made me shake my head at just how ludicrous it would be to force such a link between characters. Even J.J. Abrams came out and said that Rey’s parents weren’t in Episode 7, which basically negated all of the above as options, aside from Kenobi — which again, one should be able to realize isn’t mathematically possible even without a calculator nearby. Luckily, Rian Johnson handles Rey’s parental storyline exactly how I’d always hoped it would play out, and it works perfectly.

The second chapter in a trilogy is also often the darkest, and The Last Jedi definitely keeps that tradition up. For those expecting Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill) to fully embrace Rey (Daily Ridley) and train her in the ways of the Force simply because she brought him back his lightsaber, well, you’d be wrong. While we know that Luke felt responsible for Ben Solo’s (Adam Driver) falling to the dark side, we never knew just how deeply affected Luke was by this. It’s clear rather quickly that this isn’t the hero of legends that we all grew up with anymore, and Johnson gives Hamill some incredible material to work with here.

Learning more about the relationship between Luke and Ben Solo, what happened during their training, the fallout from that, and why Luke truly went off to find the first Jedi Temple is incredibly engrossing. This is easily Hamill’s best work to date in the franchise (yes, I’m even putting it above his Oscar worthy turn to face the camera at the end of The Force Awakens) and the seriousness he brings to this aspect of the story sets the tone for the entire film, and just how dire the consequences of all actions can truly be.

While Luke is hesitant to give Rey the time of day, this doesn’t stop her from having to deal with Force dreams she keeps having, or a newfound bond she shares with Kylo Ren, where the two are able to communicate with one another at random times, and even physically interact on some level as well via the Force. While we’ve seen this sort of connection before with Luke calling out to Leia on Bespin through the Force, the interaction between Rey and Kylo is next level Force communiqué, and adds a fun, intriguing layer to the development of these two prime characters.

Ridley gives another superb performance this time out, building off her outstanding debut in The Force Awakens. The chemistry between her and Driver is astounding. Their work together in The Last Jedi really helps add a level of ongoing tension and uncertainty that a darker tale like this thrives upon. Driver is brilliant, really getting to dig his heels into the role, and play an even more emotionally conflicted Kylo Ren than we saw in The Force Awakens. This conflict that haunts Kylo makes him such an interesting character, and Driver feeds on that inner turmoil to help make Kylo so much more than just a young, angst-ridden Darth Vader wannabe that some (I believe, wrongfully) viewed him as in TFA.

What I also loved was Johnson’s handling of Supreme Leader Snoke (Andy Serkis) and the role he plays in everything. Again, The Force Awakens left a lot up in the air with Snoke, such as what his end game is, how he got involved in this war in the first place, and whether or not he may be someone of importance from a past installment back for revenge. While not all of those questions are answered this time out, the direction Johnson chooses to go with Snoke is admirable and really, just flat out awesome. I’m sure plenty will be up in arms about certain aspects of it; but you can’t please everyone, and in the big picture this was just such a cooler, unique path to take with the Supreme Leader.

While the film is plenty dark, there are also plenty of laughs along the way. Johnson does a superb job of balancing heavy themes and character developments with comedic spots or lines that don’t feel forced, and just naturally flow with the story. Poe Dameron (Oscar Isaac) once again leads the way with the wisecracks out of the gate, and while he had some great moments in TFA, Poe also gets a lot meatier story to work with this time out.

Again, actions and consequences come into play, as Poe likes to show off his masterful piloting skills and do whatever it takes to complete a mission, whatever the cost. This doesn’t sit well with General Leia Organa (Carrie Fisher), who demotes Poe after one of these instances for not being the true leader that she needs him to be.

It’s definitely hard to see Carrie Fisher on screen knowing that this was her last role. She brought to life one of the first heroines that proved the leading lady didn’t need to be relegated to simply being the damsel in distress. Now in The Last Jedi, we get to see her show off Leia in a powerful military leadership role like we hadn’t really seen before, which is both a joy and heartbreaking to watch, simultaneously.

Finn (John Boyega) also gets a side story alongside newcomer Rose Tico (Kelly Marie Tran), a Resistance mechanic. After learning that the First Order has a tracking device that’s allowing them to track the fleet, even through hyperspace, the duo go on a mission with BB-8 to find a mysterious master hacker that can help them get on to Snoke’s ship undetected and disable the tracking device. Rose is a fun and interesting character that helps add some depth to the Resistance by giving backstory to a lower level crew member, and bringing them into the spotlight more to help give perspective on why others in the galaxy outside of our core group of heroes are fighting against The First Order.

What works so great with the separate stories that Johnson has created for each character is how well they inevitably weave together to form an incredibly strong overall narrative. Nobody ever feels like they’re doing something just for the sake of keeping busy or getting specific characters on screen. Well, except for Captain Phasma (Gwendoline Christie), who once again has a smaller role compared to how many thought her second outing in the franchise would be handled. I actually forgot about her character until she showed up well into the movie.

I also have to talk about the visuals and score of the film, both of which are some of the best the series has had to date. John Williams returns once again as the film’s composer, and once again he helps bring the film to life in a way that just wouldn’t be possible without him. On the visual side of things, The Last Jedi is a visual masterpiece. The planetary locations used throughout are absolutely gorgeous and all bring new, often jaw-dropping imagery not used before in the franchise. The battle of Scarif at the end of Rogue One was a beautiful locale choice for such a destructive event, and in keeping with unique battle sequences, The Last Jedi has an epic battle take place on the mining planet Crait. Filled with white and red contrasts that grow as the battle progresses, this is truly a wondrous confrontation to behold.

I’m having trouble putting into words just how much I love and am elated by the risks and chances Johnson has taken in the creation of The Last Jedi. He never looks to play it safe, and while there’s definitely an overall narrative that he likely had to follow with certain plot points, he just pulls no punches at all during the film’s 150-minute runtime. This may not sit well with everyone, and some of the choices made will no doubt drive some mad, but everything about how this movie was handled helps set it apart from anything we’ve seen from other movies in the franchise, while also making sure it fits in perfectly as a newly cherished chapter to this much beloved space saga.

]]>http://insidepulse.com/2017/12/15/review-star-wars-the-last-jedi/feed/0DVD Review: Thanks for the Memories: The Bob Hope Specialshttp://insidepulse.com/2017/11/19/dvd-review-thanks-for-the-memories-the-bob-hope-specials/
http://insidepulse.com/2017/11/19/dvd-review-thanks-for-the-memories-the-bob-hope-specials/#respondMon, 20 Nov 2017 03:18:16 +0000http://insidepulse.com/?p=5098197The Christmas season used to mean pine tree lots, candy canes, toys that poked out eyes and another Bob Hope special from either the studio or a war zone on the television. Bob Hope was a more welcomed guest in the living room than that fruit cake Aunt Liz allegedly made. Hope brought his self deprecating wit, amazing old showbiz friends and new pals to the brighten up the holidays. He was a star of the stage, radio and movies. But while other stars desperately wanted a hit sitcom, drama or weekly variety show, Bob Hope stuck to TV specials for his broadcast legacy. Hope still had an active movie career in the ’50s and ’60s. While his shows did well in the ratings because they were specials, most of them faded from the tube. While a sitcom from the ’50s can remain in reruns even to today, not many stations are begging to rerun an hour long special from 1958. Thankfully 40 of his specials have been compiled for Thanks for the Memories: The Bob Hope Specials boxset.

The boxset contains four dvd sets that touch on the various kinds of specials that Bob Hope hosted. “Entertaining the Troops” covers the specials that brought Bob and his famous pals into warzones. “The Comedy Hour” is from 1950 and while it’s mostly traditional, Bob does bring out Eleanor Roosevelt to read George Washington’s 1776 message to the country. Bob spends a lot of time in Vietnam and surround countries with US bases entertaining the troops with Jayne Mansfield, Jerry Colonna, Joey Heatherton, Phyllis Diller, Carroll Baker, Connie Stevens, Lola Falana, Johnny Bench. There’s even the special of his visit to the Middle East during the Kuwait war. Bob made these USO trips special for not only the stars, but the troops as he makes sure their messages home are seen on banners or heard via the microphone. The Middle East special is interesting since Bob has to leave the female performer behind on the boats as he arrives in Saudi Arabia.

“Thanks For The Memories: The Bob Hope Specials” contains a mix of normal specials with a few more USO trips to the warzones. The big moment is “Texaco Presents the Bob Hope All-Star Christmas Comedy Special” with Bob and Mark Hamill (Corvette Summer) swapping songs and jokes. What makes it extra special is a long sketch that seems to be the forefather of The Star Wars Holiday Special. Mark puts on his Luke Skywalker outfit and gets joined by Perry Como, Olivia Newton John as Princess Leia and Bob Hope as Darth Vader. This means that Bob was really Luke’s father! It’s rather funny and much more entertaining than the Holiday Special. “Joys (A Comedy Whodunit)” brings together nearly all of Hope’s friends for a detective case that has nearly everyone getting stabbed in a giallo thriller that Dario Argento should have directed. Among the all star floating corpses are Larry Storch, Abe Vigoda, Freddie Prinze, Marty Allen, Desi Arnaz, Charo, Phyllis Diller, Angie Dickinson, Jimmy Walker, Vincent Price and Phil Silvers. A major highlight is getting to see Steve Allen and Scatman Crothers (The Shining) jam musically. The revealing of the real killer is a hoot.

“Bob Hope: TV Legend” brings up even more USO tour specials which is great if you or a loved one have memories of getting to see Hope on base. What’s always amazing is how Les Brown and his band are always there to hit the road and sky with Bob to provide a little entertainment for the troops. He even gets Steve McQueen to join in on the fun. There’s a regular special that lets Bob yuck it up with Johnny Carson. There are even the studio Christmas specials that would air right before Bob would board a troop transport with his gang.

“Dean Martin Celebrity Roast” features the Halloween night in 1974 when the stars came together to spook Bob Hope. His star power was able to get major names including future president Ronald Reagan, Five Star General Omar Bradley, Rev. Billy Graham and First Man on the Moon Neil Armstrong. Hope also got the usual suspects in Phyllis Diller, Foster Brooks, Nipsey Russell and Flip Wilson. The odd part is seeing stars show up and not get to take to the podium to rib Hope which included Olympic legend Mark Spitz. There are quite a few great cracks including one about how as a small child Bob was quiet since his parents couldn’t afford comedy writers for him. Dean’s a great host as usual as he may or may not have been getting bombed on the dais.

Thanks for the Memories: The Bob Hope Specials is the perfect way to understand and appreciate not only Hope’s television legacy, but the amazing work he did for the USO. He could have gone a few times to do his duty, but he touched down on bases for decades to give a laugh to the troops. Being able to watch a series of specials show how much he put into the shows at the bases over the years. This is history and hilarious at the same time. Bob Hope can still brighten up your Christmas viewing with these classic specials.

The video is 1.33:1 full frame. The quality of the transfers depends on the elements of the vintage specials. The USO elements appear to have been shot on 16mm. Everything looks fine so that you’re screen isn’t having a battle with pixels. The audio is Dolby Digital mono. The levels are right for Hope’s wisecracks especially during the Dean Martin Roast.

Shanks for the Memories is a special with Hope talking golf with his favorite swingers in 1994.